http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/?service=Rss http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-desperate-to-avoid-a-mauling-1824833.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-desperate-to-avoid-a-mauling-1824833.html ]]> <p> By and large, Englishmen do not know a fat lot about winning games of rugby against the All Blacks. Only two men in red-rose history – Jason Leonard and a chap by the name of Martin Osborne Johnson – have tasted the glory of it more than once, and of those, only Johnson can claim to be in hat-trick territory. </p> International Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/elsom-casts-giant-shadow-over-scotland-1824835.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/elsom-casts-giant-shadow-over-scotland-1824835.html ]]> <p>Rocky was back on the big stage in the west end of Edinburgh yesterday. In his role as Australian captain, Rocky Elsom was leading Robbie Deans' Wallabies through their eve-of-battle paces at the home of Scottish rugby. Scotland and their head coach, Andy Robinson, can brace themselves for another Rocky Hero Show at Murrayfield this afternoon.</p> International Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/jones-looks-for-wales-to-rediscover-cutting-edge-1824837.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/jones-looks-for-wales-to-rediscover-cutting-edge-1824837.html <p>The Wales captain Ryan Jones wants a bold and ruthless approach from his team when they aim to rediscover their scoring touch against Argentina at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff today. </p> International Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/england-want-to-answer-critics-says-moody-1824651.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/england-want-to-answer-critics-says-moody-1824651.html ]]> <p> Lewis Moody insists England's wounded players are "chomping at the bit" to prove their army of critics wrong in tomorrow's final autumn showdown against New Zealand. </p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:04:13 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wilkinson-issues-england-warning-1824462.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wilkinson-issues-england-warning-1824462.html ]]> <p> Jonny Wilkinson has warned England will have to toughen up if they are to stand any chance of overturning the odds and beating New Zealand at Twickenham on Saturday. </p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:35:48 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/dan-carter-it-looks-like-jonny-is-back-to-his-best-1823932.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/dan-carter-it-looks-like-jonny-is-back-to-his-best-1823932.html ]]> <p>The All Blacks have spent the last few years shedding their image as the unsmiling giants of world rugby: a reputation bought and paid for in hard currency by the mean-eyed monsters of old – utterly ruthless types like Wayne Shelford and, before him, Colin Meads, of whom the expensively educated old-school England lock David Marques once famously said: "You know, the thing one most dislikes about that chap is the way the terminal traces of one's jockstrap hang from the corners of his mouth at the end of a game."</p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/ankle-injury-rules-davies-out-of-wales-pumas-test-1823934.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/ankle-injury-rules-davies-out-of-wales-pumas-test-1823934.html ]]> <p>Wales have been forced to make a change among their replacements for tomorrow's Test against Argentina at the Millennium Stadium.</p> International Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/monye-ready-to-atone-for-stinker-1823773.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/monye-ready-to-atone-for-stinker-1823773.html ]]> <p> Ugo Monye is ready for anything New Zealand throw at him after a particularly apt church service last Sunday put his "absolute stinker" of a performance against Argentina into clear perspective. </p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:59:24 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-aims-to-learn-from-criticism-1823474.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-aims-to-learn-from-criticism-1823474.html ]]> <p> England manager Martin Johnson revealed his men are in "determined mood" heading into Saturday's showdown with New Zealand, the final Investec Challenge of a tough autumn campaign. </p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:36:23 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/geraghty-stands-aside-as-england-go-on-the-defensive-1823038.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/geraghty-stands-aside-as-england-go-on-the-defensive-1823038.html ]]> <p> Nice bench, shame about the team. England, in full damage-limitation mode, will confront the All Blacks at Twickenham this weekend with a deeply defensive line-up on the pitch and some of the richest attacking talent in the land – the centres Mathew Tait and Shane Geraghty, the flanker Tom Croft – loitering among the replacements. Tait, recalled to the match-day squad after a fortnight of morale-deadening rejection, may not have expected a starting place, but the others must be almost as bewildered as they are frustrated. </p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/erinle-unlike-shane-im-not-going-out-to-razzledazzle-1823039.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/erinle-unlike-shane-im-not-going-out-to-razzledazzle-1823039.html ]]> <p>Whatever the Nigerian-born centre Ayoola Erinle brings to the England midfield on his first Test start this weekend, it is unlikely to be a kicking game that will leave some of the world's more rounded No 12s – Berrick Barnes of Australia, Luke McAlister of New Zealand, Felipe Contepomi of Argentina – wondering where they went wrong. "What makes you think Ayoola will have to kick the ball?" asked Martin Johnson when asked about the newcomer's lack of an educated right foot. Erinle's fellow centre, Dan Hipkiss, put it another way. "I've kicked twice in my Premiership career," he said with a smile, "so I guess that makes me the one with the boot."</p> International Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/erinle-replaces-geraghty-for-england-test-1822792.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/erinle-replaces-geraghty-for-england-test-1822792.html ]]> <p> Ayoola Erinle will make his first England start after replacing Shane Geraghty at inside centre in the team to play New Zealand at Twickenham on Saturday. </p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:07:58 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/saracens-stun-world-champions-1822589.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/saracens-stun-world-champions-1822589.html ]]> <p> Saracens condemned world champions South Africa to a third consecutive tour defeat on an extraordinary night for the club at Wembley Stadium. The former South Africa fly-half Derick Hougaard returned to haunt the Springboks with 14 points, including the match-winning drop-goal six minutes from time. </p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 03:19:55 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/england-coaches-put-on-a-united-front-amid-talk-of-rift-1822312.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/england-coaches-put-on-a-united-front-amid-talk-of-rift-1822312.html ]]> <p> The raiders are streaming over the hills and the wagons have been drawn in a circle. </p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/robinson-demands-rapid-improvement-1822314.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/robinson-demands-rapid-improvement-1822314.html <p> Scotland will have an unchanged starting XV and an unchanged bench when the Australians roll up at Murrayfield on Saturday but the message emanating from the camp yesterday was not quite "Same again, please." </p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/sexton-earns-debut-for-ireland-1822315.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/sexton-earns-debut-for-ireland-1822315.html <p>Jonathan Sexton will make his Ireland debut in Saturday's match against Fiji at the Royal Dublin Society Arena as one of eight changes to the side that drew with Australia.</p> International Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/borthwick-demands-england-improvement-1822236.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/borthwick-demands-england-improvement-1822236.html <p> England captain Steve Borthwick has challenged his side to discover their maximum potential against New Zealand this weekend. </p> International Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:00:45 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wales-ring-changes-for-argentina-test-1822177.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wales-ring-changes-for-argentina-test-1822177.html <p> Wales coach Warren Gatland has made six changes from the team that edged past Samoa for Saturday's Millennium Stadium clash against Argentina. </p> International Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:36:15 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/geraghty-relishing-all-blacks-challenge-1822029.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/geraghty-relishing-all-blacks-challenge-1822029.html ]]> <p> Shane Geraghty is convinced England can transform their fortunes in the space of a week and pull off what many fans would view as an improbable victory over New Zealand on Saturday. </p> International Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:39:30 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/do-england-really-need-another-veteran-1821775.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/do-england-really-need-another-veteran-1821775.html ]]> <p> Simon Shaw, recent autobiographer and senior citizen of the red-rose engine room whose exploits for the British and Irish Lions on the high veld of South Africa last summer could not have been more energy-charged had he been in his late teens rather than his mid-30s, was back in camp yesterday as England launched their preparations for this weekend's meeting with the New Zealand at Twickenham. No doubt Shaw performed brilliantly in training, reminding Martin Johnson – the man who kept him out of the national side for years – of his all-embracing skill set ahead of the last, and most thankless, of this year's Tests. </p> International Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/all-blacks-wary-of-twickenham-test-says-read-1821776.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/all-blacks-wary-of-twickenham-test-says-read-1821776.html <p>No New Zealander ever took victory for granted, which may explain why the All Blacks win as often as they do. Kieran Read, first-choice No 8 ahead of the vastly more experienced Rodney So'oialo for much of the southern hemisphere season, could be heard saying the right things yesterday, predicting that England's much-criticised pack will be in "battle royal" mode at Twickenham this weekend.</p> International Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/shaw-returns-to-england-fold-1821689.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/shaw-returns-to-england-fold-1821689.html ]]> <p> Simon Shaw is in line to make his England return against New Zealand this weekend as the pressure begins to grow on Martin Johnson's management team. </p> International Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:30:37 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/all-blacks-wary-of-england-backlash-1821617.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/all-blacks-wary-of-england-backlash-1821617.html ]]> <p> New Zealand number eight Kieran Read claims the All Blacks are wary of an England side stung by the fierce criticism that has greeted their feeble performances this autumn. </p> International Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:23:22 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-demands-huge-improvement-1821498.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-demands-huge-improvement-1821498.html ]]> <p> Martin Johnson gave the first indication that his patience is beginning to wear thin after admitting he is "fed up" of constantly having to say England must improve. </p> International Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:28:41 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-faces-up-to-englands-full-poverty-1821298.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-faces-up-to-englands-full-poverty-1821298.html ]]> <p>No one died of shock when England ran out of attacking ideas – or rather, ran on without attacking ideas – against an Argentine side featuring two new flankers plucked out of playschool, a pair of half-backs sharing the grand total of seven caps and a goal-kicking debutant in the centre. The way they are performing these days, the England team would struggle to put a try past Mothercare. But this latest in a long line of misfires was not without its surprises, the most notable of which was the expression of utter despair on the managerial features both during and after the proceedings.</p> International Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/hartley-puts-the-snarl-back-into-frontrow-beasts-1821299.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/hartley-puts-the-snarl-back-into-frontrow-beasts-1821299.html ]]> <p>It was well nigh impossible to penetrate the gloom surrounding and enshrouding the England camp in the aftermath of a narrow victory that felt like a heavy defeat. Martin Johnson, for one, was in no mood to try, and if the man running the operation felt like digging a hole in which to bury himself, there was never much likelihood of his specialist coaches appearing in public view to "take the positives" from the occasion.</p> International Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/robin-scottelliot-national-monument-in-need-of-preservation-order-1821310.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/robin-scottelliot-national-monument-in-need-of-preservation-order-1821310.html ]]> <p>In this country we have football, cricket and horse racing, in Austria they have the Vienna Opera Ball. When it comes to television's "Crown Jewels", an opera ball, especially one where women are commanded to dress up in ball gowns, fits the bill more than an entire nation coming together to have a punt on the 3.45 at Aintree.</p> International Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/odriscoll-marks-100th-cap-by-saving-ireland-again-1821301.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/odriscoll-marks-100th-cap-by-saving-ireland-again-1821301.html ]]> <p> With 10 minutes to go, Australia leading 20-13 and Ireland's increasingly desperate efforts being thwarted by Wallaby defenders, referee Jonathan Kaplan and the video official, the over-riding thought was: "We could do with a bit of O'Driscoll now." </p> International Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/robinson-delighted-by-grove-at-debutants-ball-1821312.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/robinson-delighted-by-grove-at-debutants-ball-1821312.html ]]> <p>All things considered, it was a good first day at the Caledonian international match office for the English-born figure wearing the Scottish thistle. He made his presence felt at Murrayfield on Saturday, and got off to a winning start. </p> International Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/robinson-harnesses-warriors-spirit-1820880.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/robinson-harnesses-warriors-spirit-1820880.html ]]> <p>When it came to national anthem time in the west end of Edinburgh yesterday, Andy Robinson could not quite bring himself to sing along to "Flower of Scotland". Not that the commitment of this quintessential Englishman to the Caledonian cause could have been called into question. At times, in the coaches' box, he banged down his fists in frustration. He also raised his fists in celebration. Thankfully for the former England coach and flanker, his charges had learned enough of their lines to furnish him with a winning return to the international arena – three years on from his fall from grace at Twickenham. </p> International Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/red-rose-left-in-purple-daze-after-another-dismal-display-1820899.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/red-rose-left-in-purple-daze-after-another-dismal-display-1820899.html ]]> <p>The bone-crunching, antler-rutting finish to this uninspiring clash of low- to middle-ranking nations was right up England's street. Protecting their line and a seven-point lead, and repelling Argentina's added-time line-out drive, was something Steve Borthwick's side recognised as within their capabilities.</p> International Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/dull-england-scrape-to-win-over-argentina-1820789.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/dull-england-scrape-to-win-over-argentina-1820789.html ]]> <p> Matt Banahan's third Test try earned England the victory they craved over Argentina but the result will do little to ease the pressure on Martin Johnson. </p> International Sat, 14 Nov 2009 16:29:36 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/scotland-ease-to-victory-over-fiji-1820788.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/scotland-ease-to-victory-over-fiji-1820788.html <p> The Andy Robinson era got off to a solid but unspectacular start as Scotland eased to victory in their opening autumn international against Fiji. </p> International Sat, 14 Nov 2009 16:28:12 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/all-blacks-cling-on-to-beat-italy-1820787.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/all-blacks-cling-on-to-beat-italy-1820787.html <p> Martin Castrogiovanni gave another peerless scrummaging performance to help Italy take the second string All Blacks right down to the wire in this historic Test match at the San Siro, Milan. </p> International Sat, 14 Nov 2009 16:22:49 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/france-show-encouraging-signs-during-boks-win-1820722.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/france-show-encouraging-signs-during-boks-win-1820722.html <p> France has shown it has nothing to fear from stronger teams after standing up to South Africa's physical might during an impressive 20-13 win over the World Cup holders. </p> International Sat, 14 Nov 2009 13:41:44 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/only-victory-can-calm-the-storm-for-johnson-1820455.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/only-victory-can-calm-the-storm-for-johnson-1820455.html ]]> <p>Martin Johnson has precious little interest in the world rankings regularly published by the International Rugby Board. "It's a list," he said yesterday, "and it takes up precisely none of my time." Might this have something to do with England's slippage from fifth to eighth, their lowest recorded position, since Johnson succeeded Brian Ashton as top dog last year? Apparently not. According to the manager, he would be just as disinterested if his team were lording it over the Springboks and the All Blacks as the No 1 act in the sport.</p> International Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/robinson-wants-flying-start-with-scots-after-red-rose-circus-1820456.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/robinson-wants-flying-start-with-scots-after-red-rose-circus-1820456.html ]]> <p>Andy Robinson has been this way before, of course. Five years and one day ago, the former red rose flanker presided over his maiden Test voyage as England's head coach, a 70-0 victory against Canada at Twickenham. This afternoon at Murrayfield he sets out at the helm for Scotland, his international coaching career having not quite not sunk without trace when his England days foundered on the rocks of the 2006 autumn season.</p> International Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/south-africas-beast-in-eligibility-controversy-1820459.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/south-africas-beast-in-eligibility-controversy-1820459.html <p>Confusion surrounded the international future of South Africa prop Tendai Mtawarira yesterday after it emerged he may not be eligible to play for the Springboks.</p> International Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/ireland-primed-to-claim-southern-hemisphere-scalp-1820460.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/ireland-primed-to-claim-southern-hemisphere-scalp-1820460.html <p>There is so much riding on the results of Ireland's World Cup play-offs with France tonight and next Wednesday (some would argue the mood of the nation), that it is hard to justify the importance of the Irish rugby team's "friendly" clash with Australia at Croke Park tomorrow .</p> International Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/agustin-pichot-how-the-pumas-learnt-to-roar-1820458.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/agustin-pichot-how-the-pumas-learnt-to-roar-1820458.html ]]> <p>It happened three long years ago and the rugby world has moved on a fair distance since, but Agustin Pichot still shakes his head mournfully at the memory of it. "You know, they really hated us," he says, recalling the day he led Argentina to a first, life-changing victory over England at Twickenham, only to discover that certain members of his own national union would have preferred another defeat. "They called us mercenaries because we were playing professional club rugby and turned their backs on us. After the game, they did not even come to the dressing room to congratulate us. It was a very low point. Maybe the lowest."</p> International Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wales-hold-on-despite-late-charge-from-samoa-1820520.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wales-hold-on-despite-late-charge-from-samoa-1820520.html <p> The ghosts of Samoa almost returned to haunt nervy Wales who came within inches of another embarrassing defeat in Cardiff to the South Sea islanders. </p> International Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/french-fight-back-for-famous-win-over-illdisciplined-springboks-1820607.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/french-fight-back-for-famous-win-over-illdisciplined-springboks-1820607.html <p>World Champions South Africa suffered a second successive defeat on their northern-hemisphere tour as France triumphed in Toulouse last night. </p> International Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/brazil-demand-respect-from-manchester-city-in-robinho-row-1820343.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/brazil-demand-respect-from-manchester-city-in-robinho-row-1820343.html ]]> <p> Brazil's verbal sparring with Manchester City over Robinho continued tonight with the national team manager Dunga suggesting that the club should show greater respect. The player himself said it was in his best interests to be here, even though he is not fit to play against England tomorrow. </p> Premier League Fri, 13 Nov 2009 17:53:54 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/cueto-says-england-are-feeling-the-pressure-1820330.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/cueto-says-england-are-feeling-the-pressure-1820330.html <p> Mark Cueto admitted England are under immense pressure to beat Argentina in tomorrow's showdown at Twickenham and save their autumn international series from near disaster. </p> International Fri, 13 Nov 2009 17:33:24 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/van-der-linde-ready-for-springbok-comeback-1820268.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/van-der-linde-ready-for-springbok-comeback-1820268.html <p> Leinster prop CJ van der Linde completes the unlikeliest of Test match comebacks when he joins the Springbok squad for tonight's match against France in Toulouse. But his return could have an unwelcome consequence for the Heineken champions. </p> International Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:54:37 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/bell-faces-up-to-daunting-puma-pack-1819797.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/bell-faces-up-to-daunting-puma-pack-1819797.html ]]> <p>John Wells, the England forwards coach, used the word "turgid" to describe some of the things he saw from his charges against Australia six days ago. Martin Johnson might have gone for "insipid" had he wanted to be equally blunt, but as is his wont, he stopped well short of overt criticism. But the manager did tacitly acknowledge that the red rose pack has been struggling with an aggression deficit – a subject he is likely to address behind closed doors ahead of tomorrow's meeting with Argentina at Twickenham. </p> International Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/mermoz-on-centre-stage-against-boks-1819800.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/mermoz-on-centre-stage-against-boks-1819800.html ]]> <p>The heated discussion about how far the Wallabies are ahead of England in their team-building for the next World Cup – a very long way indeed, if last weekend's events at Twickenham were any guide – could be put into an uncomfortable perspective tonight when France play South Africa in the great rugby hotbed of Toulouse. The <i>Tricolores</i>'s new midfield pairing of Maxime Mermoz and Yann David brings together centres with a combined age of 44 and if they click against a side as good as the Springboks, the next global gathering in 2011 will be their playground.</p> International Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/court-desperate-to-get-stuck-into-the-aussies-1819363.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/court-desperate-to-get-stuck-into-the-aussies-1819363.html <p> There is something incongruous about hearing of a desire to “get stuck into the Aussies” when the sentiment is expressed in a clear Australian accent. </p> International Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:22:03 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/doranjones-keen-to-make-england-impression-1819260.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/doranjones-keen-to-make-england-impression-1819260.html <p> England newcomer Paul Doran-Jones is determined to hit the headlines for all the right reasons this week after being catapulted into the squad to face Argentina. </p> International Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:35:36 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/hodgson-can-be-englands-bright-spark-1818901.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/hodgson-can-be-englands-bright-spark-1818901.html ]]> <p>Paul Hodgson, who makes his first start as England's scrum-half against Argentina this weekend, was not overly blessed by the gods of rugby: certainly, their gifts to him did not include the acceleration of a Danny Care, or the freakish straight-line speed of a Joe Simpson, or the exaggerated physicality of a Harry Ellis. Instead, he made his own way to the top, drawing on unusually rich reserves of instinct and intelligence. He is the thinking man's No 9 who must have thought his moment would never come.</p> International Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/hartley-hooks-a-starting-berth-1818903.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/hartley-hooks-a-starting-berth-1818903.html ]]> <p>Three changes to the spine of the team – at scrum-half, hooker and No 8 – plus an enforced switch in the crucial position of tight-head prop? Martin Johnson, who might consider himself beleaguered but for the unprecedented pledges of job security offered him by his employers at the Rugby Football Union, would hardly claim this to be ideal preparation for a Test match against a team as dangerous as Argentina, who pitch up at Twickenham this weekend.</p> International Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/england-make-four-changes-following-australia-defeat-1818618.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/england-make-four-changes-following-australia-defeat-1818618.html ]]> <p> England manager Martin Johnson has made four changes for Saturday's Investec Challenge showdown with Argentina at Twickenham. </p> International Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:24:35 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/dorenjones-to-cap-rapid-england-rise-1818560.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/dorenjones-to-cap-rapid-england-rise-1818560.html ]]> <p> Guinness Premiership rookie prop Paul Doren-Jones will make a remarkable rise from the Championship to Test match rugby when he is named in the England squad to play Argentina. </p> International Wed, 11 Nov 2009 10:40:56 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/rowntree-digs-deep-to-prop-up-ailing-pack-1818118.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/rowntree-digs-deep-to-prop-up-ailing-pack-1818118.html ]]> <p>Graham Rowntree, the England scrummaging coach, is one of life's natural optimists, but after casting an old front-rower's eye over the wreckage of the red-rose army's best-laid plans in the set-piece department yesterday, even he decided that bleak irony was the only appropriate response. "I'm next in line," he said, with a weak smile, "so it'll be me who's playing if the money's right." And after Rowntree? Rumour has it that Jeff Probyn, Gareth Chilcott and Fran Cotton are being sounded out for this season's Six Nations Championship.</p> International Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/gatland-rings-wales-changes-for-samoa-clash-1817998.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/gatland-rings-wales-changes-for-samoa-clash-1817998.html <p> Wales' head coach Warren Gatland has made five changes from the team beaten by New Zealand for Friday night's Millennium Stadium clash against Samoa. </p> International Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:17:41 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/carter-handed-oneweek-ban-1817976.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/carter-handed-oneweek-ban-1817976.html ]]> <p> New Zealand fly-half Dan Carter has been handed a one-week suspension for his high tackle on Wales scrum-half Martin Roberts at a disciplinary hearing in London today. </p> International Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:13:19 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/desperate-england-turn-to-doranjones-1817761.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/desperate-england-turn-to-doranjones-1817761.html ]]> <p>The last thing England need ahead of a Test match against Argentina, the most powerful scrummaging side in world rugby, is a zero-option situation in the tight-head prop department, so confirmation that the new cornerstone of the red-rose pack, David Wilson of Bath, is doubtful for this weekend's meeting with the South Americans at Twickenham amounts to a selectorial catastrophe. The cupboard is utterly bare – Old Mother Hubbard would have considered herself better off than the national manager Martin Johnson – hence the decision to summon Paul Doran-Jones of Gloucester, whose Premiership career is precisely 266 minutes old.</p> International Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/robinson-shakes-up-scotland-side-1817762.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/robinson-shakes-up-scotland-side-1817762.html ]]> <p>A penny for Andy Robinson's thoughts yesterday as he settled into his seat in an Edinburgh hotel to name his first international XV for three weeks short of three years. Now where was he, before being so rudely interrupted by the thumbs-down of the management board of the Rugby Football Union? Ah yes, picking an England side hamstrung by injury and a collective loss of form – an England side that not once, in his 22-match tenure as head coach, had the luxury of Jonny Wilkinson calling the shots from No 10. What might have been for the red rose Robinson regime had the stricken World Cup winner of 2003 been in the pivotal position for those fateful autumn Twickenham Tests of 2006?</p> International Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/moody-calls-for-clinical-england-1817665.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/moody-calls-for-clinical-england-1817665.html ]]> <p> Lewis Moody warned England cannot afford to go into their shells as they begin preparations for Saturday's must-win clash with Argentina at Twickenham. </p> International Mon, 09 Nov 2009 17:57:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/carter-disciplinary-hearing-postponed-1817555.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/carter-disciplinary-hearing-postponed-1817555.html ]]> <p> Dan Carter's disciplinary hearing has been postponed until tomorrow, at the request of the New Zealand team management. </p> International Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:48:47 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wilkinson-warns-of-argentina-threat-1817547.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wilkinson-warns-of-argentina-threat-1817547.html ]]> <p> Jonny Wilkinson has warned England that life will not get any easier when Argentina arrive at Twickenham this weekend. </p> International Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:42:58 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-damned-by-englands-lack-of-bite-1817312.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-damned-by-englands-lack-of-bite-1817312.html ]]> <p>Even in the ages of greatest uncertainty, visiting teams could confidently expect two things from the Twickenham experience: a programme of pre-match entertainment guaranteed to reduce right-thinking folk to a state of knee-clenching embarrassment and, during the game itself, a ferocious scrap with a pug-ugly England pack. The Rugby Football Union lived down to its standards on the first count at the weekend – dancers dressed as zebras (how very London), a woman attached to a hot air balloon, "Land of Hope and Glory" – but no one delivered on the second part of the deal as Martin Johnson's team slid miserably to a sixth successive defeat at the hands of a SANZAR nation.</p> International Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/jones-rues-fluffing-his-big-moment-1817316.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/jones-rues-fluffing-his-big-moment-1817316.html ]]> <p>While Warren Gatland was up in the press room accusing the game's referees of showing bias towards the All Blacks, Alun Wyn Jones was emerging from the Welsh dressing room seemingly intent on proving there is another method for handling defeat. It involves looking within rather than without and in this regard the Lions lock was even more brutally frank than his coach. </p> International Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wilkinsons-return-not-enough-to-save-flatfooted-england-1816915.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wilkinsons-return-not-enough-to-save-flatfooted-england-1816915.html ]]> <p>There is a long list of troubling tasks facing Martin Johnson and his cohort of England coaches this morning. So low did the sweet chariot swing yesterday that the metronomic swipe of Jonny Wilkinson's boot was drowned out by chimes of doom among a Twickenham crowd who cheered their returning hero whenever they could but were not so sycophantic as to ignore the discordant rugby unfolding in front of them.</p> International Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/geraghty-needs-time-to-blossom-for-red-rose-1816916.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/geraghty-needs-time-to-blossom-for-red-rose-1816916.html ]]> <p>Martin Johnson's hand may have been forced when he inked his back line to face Australia in the Autumn International series opener, with Delon Armitage and Riki Flutey ruled out through injury, but the new-look midfield partnership of Shane Geraghty and Dan Hipkiss in particular, failed to ignite England as they crumbled to a woeful 18-9 defeat at Twickenham yesterday.</p> International Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/brave-wales-lack-the-guile-to-stop-carter-masterplan-1816919.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/brave-wales-lack-the-guile-to-stop-carter-masterplan-1816919.html ]]> <p>New Zealand may well have lost their aura of invincibility in other arenas of world rugby, but in Cardiff they still seem invincible as ever. In extending their staggering period of dominance over Wales to 56 years and 21 Tests, the All Blacks forced Warren Gatland to seek a target elsewhere. The home coach duly turned his anger on the referee. </p> International Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/all-blacks-too-strong-for-brave-wales-1816853.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/all-blacks-too-strong-for-brave-wales-1816853.html <p>New Zealand withstood another brave performance by Wales to continue their mastery of this fixture.</p> International Sat, 07 Nov 2009 20:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/england-beaten-by-australia-1816822.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/england-beaten-by-australia-1816822.html ]]> <p> Australia beat England 18-9 at Twickenham today after sorting out some early indiscipline that threatened to hand the home side victory. </p> International Sat, 07 Nov 2009 16:20:04 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-desperate-for-first-big-scalp-1816603.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-desperate-for-first-big-scalp-1816603.html ]]> <p>England have spent the last decade and a half beating Australia in all the games that really matter: the World Cup quarter-finals of 1995 and 2007 are prime examples, along with the 2003 contest in Melbourne, where Sir Clive Woodward's team proved to everyone except a couple of one-eyed sheep farmers from Wagga Wagga that they were the outstanding side on the planet. Not forgetting another little tussle in Sydney later the same year, when a bloke by the name of Wilkinson dropped a goal and Martin Johnson cracked a smile for the first time in his adult life.</p> International Sat, 07 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/roberts-brings-home-lions-spirit-1816606.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/roberts-brings-home-lions-spirit-1816606.html ]]> <p>Through all the mind games, reverse swipes and subtle putdowns that have characterised a build-up that at the very best could be described as tetchy, the Wales and New Zealand camps have at least managed to agree on one thing. Jamie Roberts will be a key man at the Millennium Stadium this evening - if not the key man. </p> International Sat, 07 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/all-blacks-confirm-carter-will-start-1816607.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/all-blacks-confirm-carter-will-start-1816607.html ]]> <p>New Zealand would like everyone to know, Warren Gatland in particular, that Dan Carter will most certainly, most definitely, most undeniably be starting at the Millennium Stadium today. "He's assured me all week he will be playing," said Richie McCaw. "And he better not be lying to me." </p> International Sat, 07 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/recuperating-vickery-to-miss-start-of-six-nations-1816609.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/recuperating-vickery-to-miss-start-of-six-nations-1816609.html <p>Wasps prop Phil Vickery will miss the start of the Six Nations despite undergoing successful neck surgery. Vickery requires a minimum three months of rehabilitation from the injury sustained against Racing Metro last month.</p> International Sat, 07 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/club-rugby/vickery-operation-a-success-1816277.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/club-rugby/vickery-operation-a-success-1816277.html ]]> <p> England prop Phil Vickery will miss the start of the RBS 6 Nations despite undergoing successful neck surgery. </p> Club Rugby Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:39:16 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/carter-desperate-to-win-fitness-battle-1816093.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/carter-desperate-to-win-fitness-battle-1816093.html <p> New Zealand star Dan Carter is confident he will be fit to face Wales in Cardiff tomorrow. </p> International Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:35:17 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/lawes-can-make-england-impact-insists-saints-director-1816092.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/lawes-can-make-england-impact-insists-saints-director-1816092.html ]]> <p> Northampton director of rugby Jim Mallinder has backed second row Courtney Lawes to make a big impact for England against Australia on Saturday - provided he is given an opportunity off the bench. </p> International Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:32:57 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/lawrence-dallaglio-england-have-had-no-strategy-since-we-won-the-world-cup-1815575.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/lawrence-dallaglio-england-have-had-no-strategy-since-we-won-the-world-cup-1815575.html ]]> <p>Lawrence Dallaglio ambles out of the room, checking the messages on his mobile phone. A couple of minutes later he returns. "About all that England stuff..." he says and then pauses. This zealous communicator, a happy chewer of the fat, for once does not have the words immediately to hand. "I'm a patriot," he states after a moment, and shrugs. "All I want is to see England doing well."</p> International Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/australians-bring-back-smith-to-haunt-johnson-1815578.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/australians-bring-back-smith-to-haunt-johnson-1815578.html <p>No rugby player wins 100-plus caps for his country without knowing a thing or two about this rough old game, so George Smith's return to the Wallaby back row for tomorrow's sell-out meeting with England at Twickenham gives Martin Johnson and company something to ponder. The rugged little flanker from the ACT Brumbies is one of eight survivors from the side that started the resounding victory in London a year ago – Australia's biggest in the capital in almost a quarter of a century – and in his department at least, the tourists look stronger this time around. Oh dear.</p> International Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/gatland-says-carter-is-not-fit-1815875.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/gatland-says-carter-is-not-fit-1815875.html <p>The Wales coach, Warren Gatland, said yesterday that he does not expect New Zealand's Dan Carter to be fit enough to face his side at the Millennium Stadium tomorrow. Carter has been named in the All Blacks XV, but has not trained this week as a result of a calf injury. </p> International Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/australia-expect-england-to-prove-toughest-test-1815490.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/australia-expect-england-to-prove-toughest-test-1815490.html <p> Australia coach Robbie Deans believes Saturday's Twickenham showdown with England will be the toughest assignment of their autumn tour. </p> International Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:21:25 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/thompson-experience-is-vital-says-dallaglio-1815201.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/thompson-experience-is-vital-says-dallaglio-1815201.html ]]> <p> Lawrence Dallaglio believes Steve Thompson's experience of beating Australia will prove vital when England take on their old foes on Saturday. </p> International Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:07:35 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/henry-confident-all-blacks-have-not-lost-aura-1814734.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/henry-confident-all-blacks-have-not-lost-aura-1814734.html ]]> <p>Despite admitting that Dan Carter is "not 100 per cent" certain of recovering from his calf injury in time, it was with a familiarly confident air that Graham Henry announced the team which will be trying to extend a quite staggering period of dominance over Wales to 57 years and 21 games. As the New Zealand coach put it: "We are here again, the same as we've been for the last seven years."</p> International Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/englands-lack-of-front-a-real-worry-for-johnson-1814739.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/englands-lack-of-front-a-real-worry-for-johnson-1814739.html ]]> <p> The unexpected return of Steve Thompson to England's starting front row for this weekend's awkward meeting with the Wallabies at Twickenham will inject almost 50 caps' worth of experience into a reshaped tight unit, but the bump-and-grind department remains the source of greatest worry for the manager Martin Johnson, who knows a thing or two about life in the darkened recesses. </p> International Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/steve-thompsonim-as-fit-as-i-was-in-2003-1814741.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/steve-thompsonim-as-fit-as-i-was-in-2003-1814741.html <p> Rugby injuries? They're not as catastrophic as some people make out, despite the doom and gloom surrounding the England squad in its orthopaedically challenged state. </p> International Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-talks-up-world-cup-winners-1814649.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-talks-up-world-cup-winners-1814649.html <p> England team manager Martin Johnson has hailed the impact of World Cup winners Jonny Wilkinson and Steve Thompson in the run up to Saturday's clash with Australia. </p> International Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:33:12 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/thompson-starts-for-england-against-australia-1814561.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/thompson-starts-for-england-against-australia-1814561.html <p> Steve Thompson will complete a remarkable international comeback when he starts for England against Australia at Twickenham on Saturday. </p> International Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:26:02 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/horan-major-ireland-doubt-after-latest-tests-1814558.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/horan-major-ireland-doubt-after-latest-tests-1814558.html <p> Fears are growing surrounding the availability of Marcus Horan for the upcoming autumn internationals after the IRFU confirmed the Munster prop was undergoing "a series of tests and investigations". </p> International Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:18:13 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/australia-right-to-fear-wilkinson-say-england-1814474.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/australia-right-to-fear-wilkinson-say-england-1814474.html ]]> <p> Australia have been warned they are right to fear the return of Jonny Wilkinson ahead of Saturday's Investec Challenge showdown at Twickenham. </p> International Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:40:23 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/jenkins-warns-wales-of-wounded-all-blacks-1814057.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/jenkins-warns-wales-of-wounded-all-blacks-1814057.html <p>Neil Jenkins has given short shrift to the critics prepared to write off New Zealand following their Tri-Nations disappointments this year. The All Blacks suffered three defeats – all against the world champions South Africa – during the southern hemisphere's showpiece competition.</p> International Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-driven-to-blood-redrose-rookies-1814059.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-driven-to-blood-redrose-rookies-1814059.html ]]> <p>There are players associated with the England squad who must be wondering what they have to do to get themselves an even break – as usual, the outstanding Sale centre Mathew Tait is foremost amongst them – but there will at least be signs of a fresh side taking shape when Martin Johnson's team take on the Wallabies at Twickenham this weekend. Two new players, the France-based midfielder Ayoola Erinle and the Northampton lock Courtney Lawes, will be in the squad, along with three others who have only half-a-dozen caps between them.</p> International Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/australians-make-light-work-of-gloucesters-defence-1814299.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/australians-make-light-work-of-gloucesters-defence-1814299.html <p>Perhaps it was a good thing that a friendly between a second-string Guinness Premiership team and a second-string Australian outfit would bear little relevance for the autumn series opener at Twickenham on Saturday. For the gold and green were in a different league to their opponents here last night. </p> International Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/deans-rules-out-tuqiri-australia-return-1813888.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/deans-rules-out-tuqiri-australia-return-1813888.html ]]> <p> His focus solely on England, Robbie Deans says it's "unlikely" Lote Tuqiri will ever return to the Wallabies fold despite his impending comeback to rugby with English Premiership champions Leicester. </p> International Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:22:42 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wales-pray-for-end-to-56-years-of-hurt-1813883.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wales-pray-for-end-to-56-years-of-hurt-1813883.html <p> As Warren Gatland named his Wales rugby side to face the All Blacks, the local paper was putting on its bravest face. </p> International Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:17:23 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/court-desperate-to-feature-for-ireland-1813787.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/court-desperate-to-feature-for-ireland-1813787.html <p> With Ireland facing three autumn international matches against Southern Hemisphere opposition this month, Ulster’s Tom Court will have his fingers crossed that he features in coach Declan Kidney’s plans. </p> International Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:45:08 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/australia-fear-revitalised-wilkinson-1813780.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/australia-fear-revitalised-wilkinson-1813780.html ]]> <p> Australia coach Robbie Deans fears the impact a revitalised Jonny Wilkinson will have at Twickenham on Saturday. </p> International Tue, 03 Nov 2009 10:31:36 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/gatland-promoting-selfbelief-in-welsh-camp-1813568.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/gatland-promoting-selfbelief-in-welsh-camp-1813568.html ]]> <p> Fifty-six years of failure have the tendency to affect the self-belief levels and perhaps this is what Warren Gatland had in mind when employing a motivational expert to work with his internationals. Wales have not beaten the All Blacks since 1953 and it is clearly part of Andy McCann's brief to convince this Dragonhood they can prevail on Saturday where so many generations have fallen short before. </p> International Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:01:50 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-sweats-over-who-to--give-ticket-for-front-row-1813661.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/johnson-sweats-over-who-to--give-ticket-for-front-row-1813661.html ]]> <p>Martin Johnson will not see it this way if his England team fail to beat Australia on Saturday and continue a run of failure against the major southern hemisphere powers stretching back to the World Cup quarter-final victory over the same opposition well over two years ago, but he might be said to be in a lucky place rather than an unlucky one – as demonstrated by the fact that the rugby public has just voted him "player of the century" ahead of the great Welsh scrum-half Gareth Edwards, with Michael Jones of New Zealand and John Eales of Australia not even in the running. No, we're not making it up.</p> International Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wilkinson-will-thrive-fears-deans-1813523.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/wilkinson-will-thrive-fears-deans-1813523.html ]]> <p> Australia coach Robbie Deans expects Jonny Wilkinson to thrive amid the expectation surrounding his international comeback. </p> International Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:57:35 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/all-blacks-on-guard-for-welsh-trickery-1813406.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/all-blacks-on-guard-for-welsh-trickery-1813406.html <p> The All Blacks arrive in Cardiff today shorn of two key players and braced for more hi-jinks from Welsh rugby officials in a tricky buildup to the second test of their tour. </p> International Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:35:52 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/gloucester-face-strong-australia-side-1813350.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/gloucester-face-strong-australia-side-1813350.html ]]> <p> Gloucester will face an Australia side boasting nine full internationals at Kingsholm tomorrow night. </p> International Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:26:48 +0000 http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/carter-finds-target-as-wallabies-lose-way-1813234.html http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/international/carter-finds-target-as-wallabies-lose-way-1813234.html <p>Given their crass inability to locate their opponents' goal-line from a yard or two out, it might be some surprise if Robbie Deans' Australians found Tokyo airport for their flight to London yesterday. The Wallabies, whom England meet at Twickenham on Saturday, suffered their seventh successive loss to the All Blacks, as much by their own inadequacies and failings as New Zealand's stellar qualities.</p> International Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:01 +0000